Applications are open for the NAB Agribusiness Growth Programme, a course designed to help agribusiness owner-managers develop their business skills and resources. 

The programme, run in partnership with the New Zealand business growth centre ICEHOUSE, consists of three one-week blocks in March, May and June in both Australia and New Zealand.

Khan Horne, NAB Agribusiness General Manager, said that the programme will help participants plan for business and personal growth.

"This well respected programme has helped participants to develop the skills, resources and knowledge to combat a high-stress, time-poor lifestyle," Khan said.

Participants get a step-by-step guide on formulating business plans, which lead to greater growth and profitability, and explore new ideas and thoughts with like-minded people in similar situations.

"Our past participants have been extremely positive about the course and gone on to improve their businesses by using the tools and understanding gained from the program," Khan said.

"With the changing face of Australian agriculture, it is no longer good enough to just do what you have always done.

"You can't just look over the neighbour's fence to get good ideas anymore; you have to get out there and pro-actively work on your business to take advantage of changing technologies and manage environmental issues.

"The format of the course gives participants the chance to take new ideas back to their businesses to try them out, before returning to discuss results with facilitators and other participants at the next session.

"NAB Agribusiness is here to support Australia's agricultural industry, and this programme is just one of the many ways we back Australian farmers," he said.

Places are limited and applications close on February 19, prior to the first session starting on March 24.

For more information on the NAB Agribusiness Growth Programme visit www.nab.com.au/agribusiness or ask your local NAB Agribusiness banker.